However, after she caused a stir with her arrival during the cocktail party in San Francisco, Flajnik ultimately decided not to give Newton a rose and she left in tears.

Writing on her Twitter account after the episode aired she said: "This was a very emotional night. I have NO regrets doing it! Thank you for all your support. You all made this easier for me. #TheBachelor. (sic)"

Among the former Bachelor stars who offered their support to Newton via Twitter was Graham Bunn, who wrote: "Much respect to @Shawntel_Newton good for u, love that you followed ur heart ."

Newton replied: "It wasn't easy. I'm glad I did it though. Hope all is well with you."

Meanwhile, former Bachelorette Ali Fedotowsky wrote on her own Twitter account: "I absoutely love @Shawntel_Newton and it's really hard for me to see the girls me mean to her. #bachelor. (sic)"

Ashley Hebert, who appeared with Newton on The Bachelor before fronting the most recent season of The Bachelorette, added in a message to Newton: "Glad you went for it! Am so blown away by what went down. Speechless! Love you xo!"